Asik-asik entry wins PAGCOR photography competition

A photograph of Asik-asik waterfalls in Alamada, North Cotabato has been adjudged as one of the grand winners of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s National Photography Competition last month.


The winning photo was taken by Ernestina Jacinto from Quezon City. The awarding ceremonies was held at the Airport Casino Filipino in Parañaque City on July 16, 2013.

Asik-asik waterfalls in Alamada. photo by sidney nanini

Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza expressed her profound gratitude to the winning photographer for choosing Asik-asik as one of her entries.

“I feel so delighted that Asik-asik has brought another wonderful chronicle in the history of North Cotabato, I thank Ernestina Jacinto for exploring here in our province,” she said.

The governor added that the Provincial Government of Cotabato is now boosting its tourism capability, considering the Asia’s longest zipline and Mt. Apo is also located in the province.

Forty eight out of 5,500 entries from both amateur and professional made it to the final cut for judging on July 5.

Of the 48 entries, only three photographs were chosen from each of the following categories: People, Customs and Traditions,  Nature, and Structures and Historical Landmarks.

PAGCOR adopted Philippine Tourism’s slogan “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” as its competition theme.
People category depicts human scenes for everyday life and the like, while Customs and Traditions category shows celebrations, festivals, food and similar to.

While Nature category illustrates travel destinations, flora and fauna, natural resources and attractions, outdoor scenery, underwater and the like.

And the Structures and Historical Landmark category demonstrates heritage sites, historical landmarks and the like.

The grand winners each received PhP75,000.00 and a trophy. The 36 remaining finalists each received certificate of merit and PhP20,000.00 as consolation prize.

In his statement posted at PAGCOR’s website, Chairman Cristino Naguiat, who is also heading the panel of judges, said it was pretty challenging for almost all of the photos showcased Philippine’s unique character, fun, beauty and tradition.

Naguiat added that with what he saw in the exhibit, there are still a lot of undiscovered natural wonders in the country.

PGCot conducts SRA, partners with Davao’s top BPO

This year, the Provincial Government of Cotabato partners with one of the top contact centers in Davao City through a Special Recruitment Activity (SRA) held at the Capitol gymnasium on August 20-22, 2013.



The recruitment activity is a way of introducing North Cotabato’s 99^th Founding Anniversary themed “Nagkakaisang Lakas Tungo sa Matatag na Bukas,” which will kick-off on August 26.

Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza conveyed her acknowledgement to CONCENTRIX for choosing North Cotabato as their hiring target.

“This initiative is really intended to help Cotabateños get better and quality jobs, as it will give break to undergraduates who wish to work in a long term basis. I am confident that many of you will make it,” in her inspiring statement.

Taliño-Mendoza also told the applicants to strive hard and focus in their interviews.

Facilitated by the Provincial Human Resource and Management Office, around 500 applicants, 18 years and above, are expected to flock at the recruitment venue.

Conversant in English, must have undergone at least two years in College, and a bonafide Cotabateño – these are just some of the simple qualifications the company requires for their newly hired employees.
After passing series of interviews and examinations, the successful candidates shall undergo project training to enhance their communication skills and project know how.

Rose Marie Moreno-Beltran, Senior Human Resource Head for CONCENTRIX Davao, and a Cotabateña as well, said they have high hopes that many will get appointed through this one time recruitment in the province.

Moreno-Beltran encouraged more applicants to submit their resumes as this activity will last until Thursday.
In her final statement, she expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Governor Taliño-Mendoza for collaborating with their company, and for giving them the opportunity to realize the employment capability of the people of North Cotabato.

“Our company has many benefits to offer our successful recruits, we have very competitive compensation packages, relocation and training allowances, and free board and lodging all throughout their training period in Davao,” she added.

One of the qualified applicants on the initial day of hiring said, “I felt so nervous because it was my first job interview after graduating in college, and now I am excited and ready to take my training”.

Qualified applicants will start their first day of training by next week.

CONCENTRIX Davao is a business outsourcing company established eleven years ago, with almost 700 workforces under operation and administration offices.

Kalivungan Feature: Kulintangan Extravaganza

Kulintang is a Maguindanaon term referring to an ancient instrumental form of music in a form of gong kettles. The gongs are laid horizontally to create a kulintang set.

Kulintangan Extravaganza in Pikit last year. PGO File Photo

In North Cotabato, Kulintang is played by some artistic and skillful moslem brethren to uphold their manifestation of their rich cultural heritage.

A musical presentation called “Kulintangan Extravaganza” will again hold attention to Cotabateños on this year’s 99^th Founding Anniversary hailed as Kalivungan Festival 2013.

The musical showdown aims to re-establish and develop Kulintang as component of indigenous cultures in the province.

Kulintangan will be executed by talented musicians teamed by four or five members. Each plays the kulintang itself, a dabakan, a gandingan, an agong, and a pamandil which is optional.

It is played by striking the bosses of the gongs with two wooden beaters harmonized by other instruments.
Three pieces – the Tinidto, Binalig, and Sinulog will be performed by the instrumentalists in maximum of two minutes per melody.

Professional and skilled musicians will judge the contest through identification of style, melody, and synchronization.

The competition will be facilitated by the Local Government of Pikit chaired by Board Member Dulia Sultan, and will be held at Pikit Municipal Plaza on August 29, 2013.

TUCP, PGCot grants 2.5M covered court once more

With high hopes and faith, residents of Barangay Marbel in Kidapawan City felt gratified for receiving 2.5M worth of covered court from the Provincial Government of Cotabato and the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) last week.

The turn-over ceremony was scheduled in time with Marbel’s 66^th Founding Anniversary themed “Pagkahiusa, Dalan Ngadto sa Kalambuan.”

Governor Emmylou “Lala” J.Taliño-Mendoza came to personally visit the residents and handed out the said facility. TUCP Representative Raymund Democrito Mendoza extended his warm greetings to the people of Marbel through the governor.

In her message of support, Taliño-Mendoza said the ceremony is a true ensemble of a genuine public service, adding that the provincial government is really working hard to bring services to its constituents, with the help of TUCP Partylist.

Apart from the many covered courts distributed in the past three years of her administration, the Governor enlightened the residents how TUCP Partylist rendered support to the Provincial Government of Cotabato.

She further added that TUCP also contributed in the distribution of green multi-cabs to the many barangays.
In line with the upcoming barangay election, Taliño-Mendoza also emphasized how important cooperation and support among residents are, in inspiring the provincial and city officials to strive more in bringing the necessary services for their village. She clearly advised the people not to ruin their relationship with each other just for politics.

Both the barangay officials and some city officials were able to attend the event.

Barangay Chairperson Allan Pancho in his acknowledgement said he was so glad that finally their village received a big project like this. He thanked Governor Taliño-Mendoza and TUCP Representative Mendoza for giving them the chance to show their support to the present administration.

Pancho also guaranteed that people from Marbel will continue to shore up the programs of the government.

2^nd District Board Member Cris Cadungon was also present during the turn-over.

Matalam beats 5 on kalivungan street-dancing comp 2013

Proud students of the Matalam National High School representing LGU Matalam beats five other contingents of the Kalivungan  street-dancing competition 2013 at the North Cotabato provincial grandstand yesterday morning.

Matalam’s Grupong Mascuvado champs Kalivungan’s Street-dancing competition 2013 at the North Cotabato Provincial Grandstand on Sept. 1, 2013

Around 25,000 people comprising parents and relatives of the participants, barangay, municipal, city, and provincial officials of North Cotabato, and guests and visitors from other provinces flocked together to witness the major event of the long-week festivity.

Six delegates battled for the most awaited event of North Cotabato’s 99^th Founding Anniversary hailed Kalivungan Festival 2013: the municipalities of Pigcawayan, Kabacan, Matalam, Makilala, Carmen, and the lone city of Kidapawan.

Matalam bagged Php150, 000.00 cash and a trophy for the grandprize. Carmen received PhP100,000.00 cash and a trophy for the 2^nd prize. While Kabacan gets PhP75,000.00 cash and a trophy for the 3^rd prize.

All six delegates each received a plaque of recognition and a subsidy worth PhP20,000.00.

Of the three top placers, Matalam depicts “grupong mascuvado”. Mascuvado is a spanish term for the sweetest sugar generated out of sugarcane, the major product of their town.

Carmen ensembles “Grupong Pulangi” and Kabacan represented the “Grupong Kabaceños”.

In the middle part of the competition, 3^rd District Board Member Ivy Dalumpines delightedly introduced Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito Estrada as the guest of honor.

Senator JV Estrada expressed his appreciation to the warm welcome of the people of North Cotabato especially to Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza for the successful conduct of the occasion.

He took the opportunity to thank the people of Cotabato for supporting him during the May 2013 election, making him ranked 3^rd in the province beyond other senators.

“Because you have endowed and greatly contributed on my victory, I will make sure that your province will benefit my legislations, this will serve as your incentive in return for choosing me as one of your policy-maker,” he said.

“We will work hand in hand in uplifting the economic stability of your province,” in his final message.

Meanwhile, Governor Taliño-Mendoza announced that the upcoming Centennial celebration of the Kalivungan Festival or the 100^th Founding anniversary next year will be a grandiose and pompous one.
She said the Provincial Government of Cotabato is looking forward into making the events bigger, more enjoyable, and entertaining.

Given this, she also made known that the same day is the launching of the 100^th Founding Anniversary of North Cotabato.

After the launching, the Provincial officials proceed at the ground breaking and capsule-laying of the Centennial Pavilion and Centennial Museum at the capitol grounds.

The Cotabato Hymn entitled “Ok sa Cotabato”, composed and performed by the MAKI-RUDY band was also officially launched.

This year’s champ will compete on the Aliwan Festival at Pasay City while 1^st runner-up will contend for Sinulog Festival in Cebu, both conveying Cotabato Province.

NorthCot Governor pledges support for Aquino on 4th SONA

President Benigno S. Aquino III is shown with House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. and Senate President Franklin Drilon,delivering his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA) during the Joint Session of the 16th Congress at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City on Monday (July 22, 2013). Photo Courtesy of Malcanang Photo Bureau

Amas, Kidapawan City – North Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza pledges support for President Benigno S. Aquino, III’s “Daang Matuwid” during his fourth State of the Nation Address at the Session Hall of the House of Representatives in Batasang Pambansa Complex, Quezon City on Monday (July 22, 2013).

Aquino’s SONA lasted for one hour and forty-four minutes, highlighting his program developments on education, agriculture, health, tourism, infrastructure, expanded services, disaster prevention and mitigation, expansion of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), and many more.

The President pointed out how his dedication made him play his important role as Philippines’ Chief Executive.

“Ang atin pong batayang prinsipyo: Malawakang pagkakataon ang susi sa malawakan at pangmatagalang kaunlaran,” he said..

Governor Taliño-Mendoza meanwhile, expressed her profound gratitude for Aquino’s achievements in the past three years.

She said, “I am thankful for President Aquino’s pro-people programs and projects. With his sincere desire to institute reforms and eliminate irregularities under his watch, his agenda for “Daang Matuwid” would be easier to achieve.”

The President’s achievements according to the governor, proves that the government truly works for its people, while proudly saying that the Provincial Government of Cotabato takes the same path.

The Governor added that the province links her advocacy “Serbisyong Totoo” to Aquino’s “Daang Matuwid” by way of prioritizing the needs of every Cotabateño, in order to create better future for the next generation.

“As Governor of Cotabato Province, amidst all the difficulties brought about by man-made and natural calamities, as well as partisan politics, I am committed to do my share for the fulfillment of the goals of “Daang Matuwid”. I am a proud Cotabateño, proud Filipino,” in her final statement.

The full transcript of Aquino’s fourth SONA is already available in tagalog and English versions.

New WFP Phil Dir lauds PGCot for implementing projects

Amas, Kidapawan City – Newly appointed Philippine Director for World Food Program Praveen Agrawal expressed his appreciation to the Provincial Government of Cotabato for successfully implementing their projects on Thursday, July 18, 2013.

WFP Philippines Director Praveen Agrawal (wearing vest) with Pikit Mayor Muhyryn Sultan-Casi
and some personnel from WFP in Brgy. Katilacan, Pikit on July 18, 2013.

Agrawal came in North Cotabato to visit two of their project sites in Pikit and Kabacan, purposely to monitor and assess its progress.

Barangay Pedtad in Kabacan was allotted 1,906 bags of rice for its 530 beneficiaries. These were distributed to those who worked for the expansion of 1.5 hectares of Inland Fishpond under Food for Work (FFW) program.

The participants on the four-day gender sensitivity training facilitated by Population Division Office (POPDiv) also received bags of rice under Food for Training (FFT) program.

Agrawal witnessed the on-going rice distribution in Pedtad on his arrival. He then expressed his gratitude to the Provincial Government of Cotabato for helping WFP in ensuring sustainable livelihood programs for the Cotabateños.

“We will plant the seeds but you will grow and nurture the fish and create livelihood out of it,” he said in his dignified statement.

After Pedtad, Agrawal proceeded to the 30 hectare fish pen in Barangay Katilacan, Pikit.

Michael Argonza, WFP National Program Officer, said that out of the 30 hectare fish pen, only 6 hectares were actually absorbed by WFP. The additional 24 hectares according to Argonza were replicated by the community and upsurge the project. A total of 2,396 bags of rice were allocated for this project.

“It was a real success story that needs to be heard around the world,” Agrawal in his astonishing message at Katilacan. He also described the project as fantastic.

3^rd District Board Member Joemar Cerebo, who represented Cotabato Governor Emmylou J. Taliño-Mendoza, said that one of the visions of the provincial government is to ensure food security programs.
“With this in mind, we are extending our many thanks to WFP, rest assured we will continue our partnership for the benefit of the Cotabateños,” he added.

Katilacan Barangay Chairman Adam Malim said they are very grateful that of many villages in North Cotabato, their barangay has been chosen to be one of the benefactors of the project.

“In our barangay, we call this dividend of peace,” in his message.

In his final message, Agrawal said “we are extremely happy with the relationship established by the Provincial Government of Cotabato and WFP, we see this province as a strategic ally to show the world that these projects are real.”

Mayor Muhyryn Sultan-Casi of Pikit was also present during Agrawal’s visit.

NorCot Gov continues helping farmers; signs commitment to MinSAAD

AMAS, KIDAPAWAN CITY – North Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza pledge support to the foreign assisted project that covers seven provinces in Region 12 during the formal launching of Mindanao Sustainable Agrarian and Agriculture Development Project (MinSAAD) held at Marco Polo Hotel, Davao City on July 17, 2013.

Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza vowed to support MinSAAD projects in Province of Cotabato. PGO Photo

MinSAAD is funded by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), a non-government agency aimed to make intervention to the communities through an integrated and area-based strategy focused on rural and agricultural development projects.

The project’s main objective is to increase agricultural productivity and income of the agrarian reform beneficiaries in the region.

MinSAAD choose seven municipalities from Cotabato Province as their benefactors – Makilala, Tulunan, Carmen, Banisilan, Pigcawayan, Libungan, and Alamada.

Governors and Mayors of Lanao del Norte, Bukidnon, Compostela Valley, Davao del Sur, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat attended the said launching as well.

From North Cotabato, Board Member Loreto V. Cabaya of 1^st District, Mayor Roger Taliño of Carmen, Lani Candolada of Tulunan, Virginia C. Concepcion of Alamada, and Betty Allado of Banisilan arrived with Governor Taliño-Mendoza and some provincial chief executives.

Together, they signed a commitment of support to the projects implemented by the Department of Agriculture (DAR) and Mindanao Development Authority (MINDA) witnessed by DAR Undersecretary Jerry Pacturan and MINDA Secretary Lualhati Antonino.

Koichi Ibara, representative from the Office of the Consulate-Japan, in his message said it is their sincere intention that inspires them to help and improve the region’s agricultural production.

In response, Governor Taliño-Mendoza was very thankful for the support provided by MinSAAD to Cotabato Province.

One way to hand this support from MinSAAD is through the distribution of high-valued seedlings to the local farmers in the province.

To monitor its growing progress, DAR will act as the leading agency for MinSAAD.

The project officially started in 2012 with an allotted fund of PhP3.349B, and is expected to end in 2016. The MinSAAD project will provide support for agricultural, agri-business, rural infrastructure development, water supply development, institutional development, and procurement of equipments in the region.

High hopes for peace on the of signing of annex on wealth-sharing – Gov.Taliño-Mendoza

AMAS, KIDAPAWAN CITY – Cotabato Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza has expressed profound appreciation and support to the recent signing of the second annex of the Framework Agreement of the Bangsamoro (FAB) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia recently.
Governor Mendoza said that with perseverance from both the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front peace panels and the willingness to find solutions to the problems in Mindanao the annex on wealth sharing, the second of the four annexes being deliberated by the two sides was eventually signed.

GPH peace panel chair Miriam-Coronel Ferrer with Malysian facilitator Tengku Dato’ Ab Ghafar Tengku Mohamed and MILF peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal during the 38th Formal Exploratory Talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Photo Courtesy of OPAPP Website

 “It is but with high hopes that the issues surrounding the wealth sharing could be resolved and agreed by the government and the MILF” the governor also said adding that the action taken by both sides is commendable.

The signing came several months after the annex for the creation of the Transition Commission was forged. The commission was tasked to formally craft the basic law of the Bangsamoro entity, which will be the basis for the governance the moment it will be established.

“To have a fiscal autonomy is one of the aims of the wealth-sharing. It is an intent the two sides would want to agree in a way most acceptable to them”, Governor Mendoza said.

The governor pointed out that everyone in Mindanao seeks for long lasting peace to prevail.  In line with this, she also said that the provincial government of Cotabato is in concurrence with all the efforts in looking for concrete and acceptable solutions to the problem.

The two annexes left for discussion and debate are on the power sharing and normalization. Like the first two annexes, the governor has high hopes that the government peace panel and its MILF counterparts will have doable terms and satisfactory results, despite the heavy issues underlying the annexes.

The discussion on wealth sharing in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday was reported to have undergone heavy pressures from both panels but was also dismissed by Presidential Adviser Teresita Deles-Quinto of the Office of the Presidential Affairs (OPAPP) as normal and typical for peace negotiations. “Along the way one panel could not completely get what it wants, that’s why meetings like these could go even tougher” Deles-Quinto said in a TV interview.

“What is more important is that the talks and the negotiation continue with even more progress”, she added.

The government and the MILF peace panels will be resuming discussions for the power sharing and normalization annexes after the Ramadhan.

85 farmers, thankful for another livelihood program of Gov. Lala

Eighty five farmers from six  of the villages in the town of Midsayap are more than thankful for receiving another livelihood program from Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza.

On July 8, a simple turn-over ceremony was facilitated by some personnel of the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVET) at the multi-purpose hall of Barangay Poblacion 5 in the said municipality.

The distribution is part of Cotabato Province’s 2013 Cattle Dispersal Program amounting to a total of PhP17M.

PhP13M of these are allotted for the procurement and distribution of large animals like carabaos and cows, while the remaining PhP4M is intended for goats, swine and hogs.

Barangay Chairwoman Shiela Marie Pana took her part in gathering the beneficiaries at the venue.
Governor Taliño-Mendoza in her message said that the provincial government’s cattle dispersal program aims to provide assistance to poor but deserving farmers in raising cattle and other farm animals.

“The provincial government provides this as an opportunity to help local farmers and get them engaged in such a way that they would be responsible enough to raise farm animals,” in her statement before the cattle were formally handed to them.

Meanwhile, Dr. Vicente Suropia, officer-in-charge for OPVET, was proud to mention of the additional PhP 6.5M funds as monetary incentive after clashing the Department of Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) Gawad Pamana ng Lahi Award last year.

Dr. Suropia said that the governor herself ordered to put entire price to OPVET to augment its growing livelihood program, in order to help more Cotabateños.

He also reminded the benefactors that they are required to bring back the first offspring to OPVET so others too could benefit from the program.

Farmers were also taught of effective animal-raising, and were given brochures and handouts.

PGCot gives Kisante P.5M, completes covered court

Residents in Kisante, Makilala have a reason to smile and be thankful for, for being the latest recipients of “Serbisyong Totoo”, the advocacy program of Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza.

The half a million assistance from the Provincial Government of (North) Cotabato was used for the completion of a covered court project in Kisante which was initially started out of the funds from the 2nd congressional district and from the Internal Revenue Allotment or IRA of barangay Kisante.

The simple turn-over ceremony on June 14, 2013 of the said covered court was attended by the students of the Kisante Elementary and National High Schools, personnel from the Department of Education (DepEd), barangay officials, and local officials of Makilala.

Governor Taliño-Mendoza, who came all the way from Manila where she just had her oath taking as re-elected (North) Cotabato Governor paid a brief visit to the area.

She said that she is happy that finally the said covered court has been finished and can now be used by the pupils and students as well as the barangay residents in their community programs or activities.

In his response, Kisante Barangay Chairman Danilo D. Dante said that he is very happy and thankful to the provincial government for its assistance given to their barangay.

2nd District Board Member Noel Baynosa was also present in the said turn-over ceremony.

Gov. Taliño-Mendoza distributes additional projects in 1st District municipalities

Given a fresh mandate in her win during the May 13, 2013 election, re-elected Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza continued her distribution of projects to her constituents in the 1st District municipalities of Midsayap, Pigcawayan and Aleosan on June 20, 2013.

Barangays Bagumba in Midsayap, Prisbetero in Pigcawayan, and Lower Mingading in Aleosan each received one unit multi-purpose building. Barangay Sta. Cruz, also in Aleosan received an electrification project.

All these projects amounting to P4M are funded by the Provincial Government of (North) Cotabato.
During the turn-over ceremonies, the governor announced that the provincial government is not only giving out infrastructure projects but livelihood programs as well.

“As long as complete requirements are submitted and there is no existing loan found in our data system, there is no reason for us to disapprove your request,” she said at Bagumba.

In her message at Barangay Lower Mingading, Governor Taliño-Mendoza said “this is our way of thanking you for the support you have given us. We will continue what we have started here as you continue to support the programs of government.”

She also directed Provincial Engineer Espiridion Taladro to repair the flooded area at  Lower Mingading Elementary School in Aleosan.

1st District Board Member-elect Loreto V. Cabaya, Jr., Aleosan Mayor-elect Vicente C. Sorupia Jr., Midsayap Mayor Emmanuel Rabara, 1st District Board Members Celestino R. Rapacon and Eliseo D. Garcesa, Jr. were also in attendance during the turn-over programs.

Magpeteños avail of NCot livestock dispersal program

Forty residents from 33 barangays of Magpet received livestock through an animal dispersal on May 30, 2013 at Poblacion, Magpet.

According to the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVet), 40 heads junior bulls, heifer and carabulls amounting to P1M were distributed.
Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza in her brief message during the turn-over of the farm animals thanked the residents of Magpet for the support given to her last May 13, 2013 election.

She encouraged the recipients to take good care of their farm animals so that others may also enjoy the same opportunity given to them.

“These livestock must be taken good care so that their first offsprings can be distributed to the next-in-line beneficiaries from your respective barangay,” the governor said.

Mrs. Vergie Montejo, one of the recipients from Barangay Poblacion said she is very happy that she was given a chance to avail of the program and promised to follow what was stipulated in the Memorandum of Agreement.

Magpet is an agriculture-rich municipality ideal for livestock raising. 

PGCot initiates tourism training for Asia’s Longest Zipline

The Provincial Government of Cotabato initiates homestay and transport operation training to the residents of Barangay New Israel in Makilala on July 05, 2013.

After the successful grand launching of Asia’s longest zipline last April 2013, selected residents of New Israel will be trained this time for a more effective tourist service.

The 2-day workshop aims to teach local homeowners and drivers with necessary skills in handling visitors during their visit at the eco-park, where the zipline facility is located.

Residents of Sitio 4 and 7 are taught on how to properly accommodate guests and visitors during their overnight stay in the area.

Drivers on the other hand, will be trained in showing proper etiquette when transporting their visitors. They will also be reminded to treat their passengers with utmost courtesy.

Personnel from Public Affairs, Assistance, Tourism and Sports Development Division (PAATSDD) under the Provincial Governor’s Office, are set to handle the said training together with some invited tourism professionals.

Josephine Abellana, officer-in-charge of PAATSDD, said the activity intends to more importantly help intensify the capability of the local people and to boost tourism in the municipality of Makilala.

“We are expecting sudden influx of tourists in the village after its final opening, hence we need to improve the services in that area,” she added.

Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza who led the ceremonial opening couple of months ago, expressed her excitement for the full operation of the facility, which is set on July 10, 2013.

“We, at the provincial government are doing our best to improve the services and amenities in the park. And when all these are completely finished, we will be able to attract more visitors from both local and international,” on her statement. 

The two-way 2.3 kilometer zipline according to Taliño-Mendoza will surely delight every guest. 
All participants will receive certificate of completion after the training. //sgjh/pgo// with reports from Jimmy Sta. Cruz

The Provincial Government of Cotabato initiates homestay and transport operation training to the residents of Barangay New Israel in Makilala on July 05, 2013.

After the successful grand launching of Asia’s longest zipline last April 2013, selected residents of New Israel will be trained this time for a more effective tourist service.

The 2-day workshop aims to teach local homeowners and drivers with necessary skills in handling visitors during their visit at the eco-park, where the zipline facility is located.

Residents of Sitio 4 and 7 are taught on how to properly accommodate guests and visitors during their overnight stay in the area.

Drivers on the other hand, will be trained in showing proper etiquette when transporting their visitors. They will also be reminded to treat their passengers with utmost courtesy.

Personnel from Public Affairs, Assistance, Tourism and Sports Development Division (PAATSDD) under the Provincial Governor’s Office, are set to handle the said training together with some invited tourism professionals.

Josephine Abellana, officer-in-charge of PAATSDD, said the activity intends to more importantly help intensify the capability of the local people and to boost tourism in the municipality of Makilala.

“We are expecting sudden influx of tourists in the village after its final opening, hence we need to improve the services in that area,” she added.

Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza who led the ceremonial opening couple of months ago, expressed her excitement for the full operation of the facility, which is set on July 10, 2013.

“We, at the provincial government are doing our best to improve the services and amenities in the park. And when all these are completely finished, we will be able to attract more visitors from both local and international,” on her statement. 

The two-way 2.3 kilometer zipline according to Taliño-Mendoza will surely delight every guest. 
All participants will receive certificate of completion after the training. //sgjh/pgo// with reports from Jimmy Sta. Cruz

4 villages in Midsayap slate livelihood projects from OPAPP’s PAMANA

Midsayap, NORTH COTABATO – 4 conflict-affected villages in this municipality slate various livelihood projects from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) on Friday (July 05, 2013).

The 4 barangays include Kapinpilan, Sambulawan, Tumbras, and Central Labas, which are just some of the 22 identified villages in the province that benefited the development projects of OPAPP’s Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan Assistance in 2013.

Each beneficiary is allotted PhP6 Million to build necessary infrastructure and equipment for farmers in the areas where majority of the crops planted are rice and corn.

North Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza and the rest of the provincial officials led the ceremonial turn-over of 4 units corn sheller buildings, 4 warehouses, 4 solar driers, some corn shellers, and complete set of hand tractors for mini rice mills.

In her message, Governor Taliño-Mendoza announced that 14 of the 22 conflict-affected beneficiaries are located in Midsayap.

She stated that the Provincial Government of Cotabato is at its full action in initiating ways to link these barangays to the national government.

“Your provincial government in its mandate to bring peace and development mediates particularly in reconciliation”, the governor told hundred of villagers present in the activity, emphasizing that rebellion is mainly brought by injustices.

She further stressed out that the provincial government always sticks to its “Serbisyong Totoo” advocacy with an aim to bring the people closer to the government though project implementation.

Taliño-Mendoza believes that through these efforts, residents will be able to uplift their economic status.
Howard Capugangan, OPAPP’s Assistant Secretary and guest of honor of the program, told the beneficiaries that OPAPP is all out in helping depressed barangays. He said “it is a directive for us to partner with the local government units and engage with them in peace and development efforts.”

For its part, recipient barangays expressed their profound gratitude for the projects given, assuring that they will take good care of the facilities.

The North East Kutawato State Revolutionary Committee (NEKSRC) of the MNLF based in the area of Sambulawan, also helped in the facilitation of the medical outreach and assisted in securing the venue.

Supporting this peace initiative were Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Vice Chairman Jimmy Labawan, General Romeo Gapuz of the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division, the Local Government Unit of Midsayap, and the Diocese of Midsayap. //sgjh/pgo// with reports from Jimmy Sta.Cruz

Gov Lala holds 1st NorCot PPOC meeting after oath taking

Fresh from her oath taking last June 28, Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza spearheaded the 1^st North Cotabato Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting at the Capitol Rooftop, Amas, Kidapawan City on July 3, 2013.

The meeting was highlighted with peace and order reports from Philippine Army’s 602^nd Brigade and Cotabato Police Provincial Office. 

According to 602^nd Brigader General Ademar Tomaro, members of the Philippine Army are always ready to respond to conflict possibilities in the province, where 11 of its municipalities are under their jurisdiction.

He also reported incidents of harassment in some villages of Tulunan, Matalam, and Midsayap, emphasizing that the situation in Tulunan is now ceased after Task Force Barko-barko was created in Barangay Maybula last month.

Tomaro said, “people must feel free to provide information to the authority.”

On the other hand, Police Senior Superintendent Danilo Peralta, Police Director of the Cotabato Police Provincial Office presented the crime index of the province.

Based on Peralta’s report, this year’s 1^st quarter has higher crime volume compared to the 2^nd quarter in terms of street, property, and physical crimes. This according to Peralta is attributed to the successive operations conducted by their personnel.

Given this, Peralta still admits that the peace and order situation in the province at the moment is unpredictable due to the presence of various “threats” from other armed groups like the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

In general, both Tomaro and Peralta appealed for support from the community.

Governor Taliño-Mendoza, meanwhile called for a strong working relationship between the authorities and the local officials, particularly to the Mayors present. 

In attendance are 3^rd District Congressman Jose Tejada, 2^nd District Board Member Noel Baynosa, 1^st District Board Member Kelie Muhammad U. Antao, the 16 out of 18 municipal mayors in Cotabato Province, and representatives from Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Education (DepEd), and some organizations who have long been partnering with the Provincial Government of Cotabato in creating peace and conflict resolutions. //sgjh/pgo (with reports from Jimmy Sta. Cruz)